Oleksandr Usyk, who defeated Joshua twice, criticised the British boxer for a specific problem with foot positioning during his shocking loss to Daniel Dubois.
As reported earlier by Sportsbuddy, Dubois triumphed in the IBF heavyweight division by winning with a cataclysmic fifth-round knockout at Wembley, sending Joshua to the canvas multiple times before ending the fight with a firm counter right hand.
Usyk, speaking after the fight, explained, “Not shocked because it’s boxing. Daniel Dubois today was better.” He emphasised Joshua’s flawed movement, saying, “Anthony had one problem because this position [leaning back] is dangerous. If you want to step back, do it [by moving your feet], not [by leaning].”
Usyks’s Promoter and Lewis Criticize Joshua’s Defence
As per The Metro, these sentiments were supported by Usyk’s promoter, Alexander Krassyuk, who argued that Joshua lacked the right mentality and defensive skills.
“The footwork was the problem; the mindset was one of them; everything was at fault,” cited Krassyuk. He exclaimed, “Did you see that, his right hand?” while condemning Joshua for being negligent and failing to cover up properly. It was all the way [down], so his chin was up. It was a fairy tale for any boxer, not just Dubois.”
Another prominent critic who was quick to notice these shortcomings was the three-time world champion in the super heavyweight category, Lennox Lewis, who criticised Joshua for the exposed defence and, in particular, before the knockout punch.
Some criticism aimed at that punch right there: ‘He should have thrown a jab first’ and that just summarises the defensive measures to be taken in the heavyweight division.